Formerly the preserve of hard training athletes, but now embraced by a number of celebrities, magnesium baths have been popular over the long lock-down winter. Fortunately, the potential benefits of magnesium are open to all with or without a bath, or time for a long soak…!

What does magnesium do?

Magnesium is both a mineral and an electrolyte and is essential for over 300 bodily functions, such as regulating heart rate and blood pressure, muscle and nerve activation, maintaining bone health, energy production and DNA replication.

Although a clinical magnesium deficiency is rare, many of us may have low levels  This may be due to our diet, or even if we eat well, as a result of mineral deficient soil, or digestive disorders effecting magnesium absorption. 

Common signs of magnesium deficiency include:

Fatigue, muscle weakness, spasms and cramps, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, osteoporosis.

Fortunately, a deficiency can typically be fixed over a short period of time, as the level of magnesium required is not large – and restoration can be done through relaxing baths & gentle massage!

The benefits of increasing magnesium:

• Relaxation
• Aids a good night sleep
• Relieves muscle tension
• Supports bone & skin health
• May help relieve inflammatory skin conditions
• Potential migraine relief
  
  

Magnesium through the skin…

A number of studies have shown that magnesium absorption through the skin (transdermal) is highly effective (even better than through the GI tract); plus, it can avoid potential issues found with oral supplements, for example malabsorption, diarrhoea, and possible interactions of other medicines/supplements in the digestive system.

Epsom salts vs Magnesium chloride flakes

Both are sources of magnesium but they have a different molecular structure. Epsom salts are magnesium sulphate. Magnesium chloride is typically more expensive but is more easily absorbed into the body, so a smaller amount is needed per bath. 

Just run a hot bath, drop in a few handfuls of salts & relax.

Magnesium oil spray

A simple, easy to apply source of magnesium, which allows you to focus on a particular sore muscle or joint.

Best food sources

Whole grains, green leafy veg, dark chocolate, pulses, nuts, seeds, mackerel, oysters, tuna, avocado, bananas.